Classic Zambia

Few places in the world are still as wild as they were when explorers like David Livingstone ventured into lands that were terra incognita. While Africa, like the rest of the globe, has become familiar, portions of it are evocative of that earlier era, when the bush teemed with animals and nature’s immensity was palpable. This survey of Zambia’s untamed wildlife realms, capped with the finale of Victoria Falls, is for explorers seeking Africa as it once was—and still is.

Our Expert Says

In just two words, Zambia in my book is: perfectly wild! Zambia is a great destination for both first-timers and seasoned safari-goers who have visited other African countries and yearn for more. Walking safaris, particularly in South Luangwa National Park, are an absolute highlight of any visit to Zambia, as the landscape is ideally suited for game viewing on foot – an exhilarating experience. In contrast to the river valleys of South Luangwa, Kafue National Park feels much like the Serengeti or Masai Mara. Here the plains open up on a grand scale, providing excellent wildlife sightings and spectacular sunsets.

–
Aly Jacobsen

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Days 1-5: Kafue Nat'l Park

Established in the 1950s, Kafue is the third largest park in Africa. Yet it remains largely unexplored, with 67% designated as wilderness where only walking safaris are permitted. The Busanga Plains are the park’s prized jewel. Seasonal floods generate vast grazing areas for huge herds of buffalo and rare antelope. Kafue is also one of the best places in Africa to see leopard. Lion and cheetah are common, and wild dog are increasingly seen.

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Days 6-10: South Luangwa N.P.

The South Luangwa National Park is a legend among safari connoisseurs. The walking safari originated in the Luangwa Valley, whose oxbow lagoons are a magnet for elephant, zebra, 14 species of antelope and huge herds of buffalo that reach 1,000 at the height of the dry season. The river harbors 50 hippos per kilometer. Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest are unique to the park, while wild dog and large prides of lion are notable predators.

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Day 11: Lusaka

Sprawling, frenetic Lusaka is Zambia’s thriving capital and largest city. Once a village along a strategic railway line, Lusaka replaced Livingstone in 1935 as the capital of the British colony of Northern Rhodesia. Today the fast-growing city is a magnet for jobseekers from the rural hinterlands, and the start or finish point for many Zambia safaris. Lusaka is famous for its vibrant markets, including several that specialize in Zambia’s outstanding handcrafts.

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Day 12: Livingstone/Home

Your safari adventure ends today in Livingstone, Zambia.

Notes

iSafari.com's Africa safari planner cannot precisely calculate the costs of air and land transfers to all camps and lodges as the locations and travel distances vary slightly. With this in mind, your final quote may increase or decrease by a small amount.

The estimated rates given for these itineraries are adult rates, but many properties offer reduced rates for children. Please contact our office for more information.

Holiday surcharges may apply for travel in late December and early January, and occasionally over the Easter holiday.

A non-refundable deposit of 25% of the trip fee per person is required upon booking to confirm your reservation.

Inclusions

All accommodation on a double occupancy basis

Meals at camps and lodges

Excursions and transfers unless listed as optional

Services of the lodge guides and staff unless a NHA Safari Expedition Leader is booked

Relevant park fees

Alcoholic and soft drink beverages are included at some camps and lodges

Laundry service is available at most permanent camps/lodges and hotels; in some cases this service is included in the tariff quoted

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